26th January 1950 is one of the most important days in Indian history as it was on this day the constitution of India came into force and India became a truly sovereign state and a totally republican unit. To once again relive that happiness of freedom and appreciation for the sacrifices of our martyrs, India Association of Virginia celebrated India’s 59th Republic day at Cultural Center of India (CCI), Chesterfield, Virginia on January 25th, 2009.

Amidst a gathering of more than 1000 audiences from various parts of India and yet Americans, we celebrated India’s 59th Republic Day with great zeal and enthusiasm. It was an ecstatic moment where Indian community came together representing unity and diversity which is symbolic of India’s great heritage.

The beginning of this occasion is always a solemn reminder of the sacrifice of the martyrs who died for the country in the freedom movement and the succeeding wars for the defense of sovereignty of their country. Continuing this tradition, all the members of the Indian community along with our Chief Guests showed respect to the sacrifices of martyrs of 26th November, 2008, Mumbai Terror Attacks. It once again raised a question in our hearts “Why India, a land where brotherhood and love, amalgamation of different cultures and traditions has been a part of everyone’s life”?

Beginning with the Fort Lee Army Band performance where the large audiences got a life time experience to witness the US Army Band performance, and their gesture to become a part of our Nations Republic Day celebration was remarkable and much appreciated.

A large group of infants, toddlers and grown up children, accompanied by their parents, paraded throughout the auditorium waving tiny Indian flags to begin the program with smiles on their faces and brightness in their eyes expressing the happiness.

Not only the participants showed their whole hearted appreciation for India’s culture and tradition amidst which they have spent their childhood, youth and the golden moments of their lives but also respect to each other as individuals. Everyone dedicated themselves to make this event successful where they could have the maximum representation of people from each province of India.

The program was well planned and well coordinated with lots of food specialties needless to say fresh Samosa’s and Jalebis along with Tea and Mango Lassi and dinner in the evening. The enthusiasm and appreciation for the food and arrangement was very much visible in the eyes of the audiences.

Whole afternoon was filled with pleasure and fun where the India Association of Virginia volunteers made sure that the audiences were well entertained and that everyone had their share of fun filled celebration.

The cultural eve was a mix of performances showcasing variety of traditional performances such as Rajasthani Ghoomar and Gujarati Garba dance, patriotic songs, rich music with a blend of modernity where small kids modeled on the stage and amazed the audiences with their expressions. Indian traditional outfits and Jewelry contributed to the beauty of the evening and made it more colorful.

From little ones to elders, from toddlers to grandparents every individual was reminded of their motherland at the initiation of India's National Anthem “Jana Gana Mana” which fills every Indian soul with pride and love for their country. For immigrant parents its one of those opportunities where they can show their coming generations what all India has in terms of culture, tradition and customs.

It was a fun-filled event to bring the friends and families together and an opportunity to create a Home Away From Home in distant lands.